Over the past few seasons, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has consistently been in the conversation for NFL Coach of the Year (COTY), earning votes each year. However, 2024 may be the year when no one is more deserving of the honor than Campbell.
The NFL Coach of the Year Award
The NFL Coach of the Year is given to the head coach who has done the most outstanding job with the talent at their disposal. Currently, Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell is a leading contender. Under his leadership, the 12-2 Vikings have clinched a playoff spot, and O’Connell has revitalized quarterback Sam Darnold’s career, guiding him to elite performance levels. While O’Connell’s efforts are impressive, Dan Campbell’s achievements in Detroit are even more deserving of recognition.
Lions Projected to Be Front-Runners
After narrowly missing out on a Super Bowl appearance last year, the Detroit Lions entered the 2024 season with Super Bowl aspirations. Many predicted they would be contenders this season. Facing one of the toughest schedules and several prime-time games, the Lions had the pressure of living up to expectations. With a highly talented roster, they were poised for greatness.
Campbell’s squad boasts some of the league’s elite players. Quarterback Jared Goff is leading the NFL in several key metrics, while running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs form the league’s best duo. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown ranks among the most reliable and talented in the league. It’s easy to look good with such a talented roster, but Campbell’s role in crafting a winning culture is what sets him apart.
How Campbell Set the Lions Up for Success
Building a successful team requires more than just talent; a great coach creates a winning culture and a solid foundation. After the heartbreaking loss that kept them out of the Super Bowl last year, the Lions entered 2024 determined to achieve their goal. Campbell used the previous year’s disappointment as fuel for the team, inspiring them to believe that their Super Bowl drought was finally over.
The season started as expected, with the Lions winning tough games against formidable opponents. They entered October with a 3-1 record and faced a road challenge against the Dallas Cowboys. Despite losing star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson to a serious injury, the team rallied, securing a dominant 47-9 victory. The defense, fueled by Hutchinson’s injury, forced three interceptions and a fumble while holding the Cowboys to just three points.
Why Campbell is the NFL’s Best Coach
A great coach motivates players to overcome obstacles, and Campbell has done just that. He’s built a resilient team capable of handling adversity. After Hutchinson’s injury, Campbell reminded the team that they weren’t reliant on any one player, urging everyone to step up. Despite further injuries, the Lions kept winning, including a 31-29 victory over the Vikings. By the end of October, Detroit sat atop the NFC North with a 6-1 record.
As injuries continued to plague the team, the Lions’ front office responded by adding four veteran players to the defensive line. Campbell, along with defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, found ways to maximize the potential of these new players, even though they had never played together. The Lions then extended their win streak to a franchise-best 11 consecutive games.
Campbell and the Lions Fall to Josh Allen and Buffalo
In Week 15, the Lions were tied with the Kansas City Chiefs for the NFL’s best record at 12-1. However, a 48-42 loss to the Buffalo Bills came at a cost—Detroit lost several key players, including star running back Montgomery and several defenders. Now at 12-2 and tied with the Vikings and Eagles, the Lions face a tough road ahead to secure the top NFC seed. But don’t count the Lions out, and don’t bet against Campbell.
This team thrives with its back against the wall, and they are determined to finish the mission they started last year. Campbell’s ability to win games, no matter who is in the lineup, highlights his greatness as a coach.
The Sign of a Truly Great Coach
The mark of an exceptional coach is also seen in their ability to nurture the next generation of leaders. Campbell has done just that, empowering both defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to shine. The pair are expected to be among the top head coaching candidates for the 2025 season. Lions fans can only hope Campbell has a succession plan in place to ensure the team’s continued success.
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